Landscaping your yard can be a fun way to improve your home’s look. But some trends might seem great at first and later cause problems or regret. Knowing what to avoid can save you time, money, and effort down the road.
This article shows you nine landscaping trends that might not work out the way you expect. That way, you can make smarter choices and enjoy your outdoor space without unwanted surprises.
Overcrowded foundation plantings
You might think filling every space near your house with plants looks great. But overcrowding can make your yard look messy and unkempt.
When plants grow too close, they compete for water and sunlight, which can hurt their health. Plus, it makes it harder to keep things neat and tidy around your home.
Excessive use of gravel
Using too much gravel can cause problems in your yard. It might look neat, but it can make your space feel cold and dull.
Gravel also needs a strong weed barrier underneath. Without it, weeds can still pop up and make your yard look messy.
Overly manicured lawns
If your lawn looks like it’s been cut by a robot every day, it might feel a bit boring. Overly manicured lawns take a lot of time and water to keep perfect.
You might find that natural, less perfect yards feel more welcoming. Going for a simple, relaxed look can save you effort and still look nice.
Planting trees too close together
When you plant trees too close, they end up fighting for sunlight, water, and space. This can make them weak and stunt their growth.
Their roots can get tangled, which might sound good, but it can also cause problems like poor stability or damage to nearby structures.
Landscape fabric under mulch
You might think landscape fabric under mulch stops weeds for good. But weeds usually find a way to grow on top once the mulch breaks down.
The fabric can also block water and air from reaching the soil. This can hurt earthworms and your soil’s health.
Thirsty, high-maintenance plants
If you pick plants that need lots of water and care, your yard can become a full-time job.
These plants often need special light, constant watering, and extra attention. You might start off excited, but keeping them healthy can get tiring fast.
Single-tree front yard landscapes
Choosing just one tree for your front yard might seem simple, but it can limit your yard’s look. A single tree can look lonely or leave too much empty space around it.
If you do pick one, go for a small tree that fits well. Something compact like a dogwood or redbud works better in small yards.
Low-maintenance gardens that are mostly paved
If you choose to pave most of your garden, be ready for a hard, less natural look. It might seem low work, but large paved areas can get hot and boring.
You’ll also spend time cleaning weeds that grow between cracks. Adding some natural stones with space between can soften the look and make walking easier.
Bold or overly bright mulch choices
Using bright or bold-colored mulch might seem like a fun idea at first. But it can quickly look out of place or fade over time.
The color can distract from your plants instead of helping them stand out. If you want a cleaner look, try natural or earth tones instead. They blend better and last longer.